Party commends grassroots people

THE People's Democratic Party (PDP) believes it is the perseverance and goodwill of grassroots people that has seen the country through turbulent times.

In a statement sent to this newspaper by the political party, its spokesperson Nirmal Singh says Fijians who are under the "grassroots" category should be commended for enduring hardships brought about by past governments since 1987.

"Our journey as a nation since 1987 has not been smooth and has been full of challenges," Mr Singh said in the statement.

"It has tested our resolve as a multiracial nation, it has tested our tolerance for each other and it has tested our ability to preserve. It has tested our nation's ability to endure hardship and national integrity."

He said people needed to take responsibility for the state the country had been in since 1987 and that "we the people are guilty of where our nation is today".

"We urge people to exercise your rights and be part of national development.

"Our people are our strength and together we will move forward to reclaim our country, our freedom and determine our destiny," he said.

He added that if the party was voted into parliament, they would be an inclusive government that would strongly subscribe to democratic values, rule of law and respect for people's liberty.

"We believe in unfettered press and respect the rights of people to differ with us. They are equally as important in the governance of the nation.

"We will protect and enhance the rights of workers, both unionised and non-unionised and the rights of farmers who have shed their sweat and blood to make this country what it is today."